Breast Cancer Reconstruction Surgery

Breast reconstruction surgery is an option for women who have lost one or both breasts due to cancer or a medical condition. The surgery can restore balance to the body, restore a woman’s sense of femininity, and help patients feel “whole” again. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 1 million reconstructive breast surgeries were performed in 2010 alone. With new developments and methods for performing surgery emerging over time, the surgery has a high success rate.

What to Expect During Surgery

No two breast reconstruction surgeries are alike. Each surgery patient has had a distinct experience with cancer, may be in various stages of remission, and has their own individual health conditions and cosmetic goals. Because of these differences from patient to patient, there are several ways that the surgery can be performed. These various surgery methods accommodate to the specific needs of the patient, and the recommendations of the surgeon. Some women have a mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery at the same time, while others are advised to wait until after their mastectomy is complete to undergo breast reconstruction surgery. Regardless of the timing, the procedure generally takes place over several stages. The following sections introduce patients to the breast reconstruction process.

Anesthesia

Breast reconstruction surgery is a comprehensive procedure that requires the use of general anesthesia. This means that the patient will be unconscious during surgery and will not experience any pain, or be away of what is taking place during surgery. In addition, they will have no recollection of the surgery when they wake up. During a pre-surgery consultation, the surgeon will discuss the use of anesthesia. It is important for your health and safety to disclose any drug allergies or health conditions so your doctor can choose the right anesthetic for you.

Incisions

Once anesthesia has been administered, surgery begins with incisions. The size and location of the incisions will vary based on which type of breast reconstruction surgery you undergo. Implant reconstruction requires the fewest number of incisions, which are typically made across the center of the breast area. Flap reconstruction techniques, including TRAM flap, DIEP flap, gluteal flap, and latissimus dorsi reconstruction require more incisions because they involve the relocation of tissue from one area of the body to the breast. In both breast reconstruction techniques, the size and number of incisions will affect scarring and healing time.

Creating the new breast

The way the breast mound is created will also vary based on the type of surgery being performed.

Implant Reconstruction

Implant reconstruction takes place over several stages. During an initial procedure, a balloon expander is placed beneath the skin and chest muscle in order to stretch the area. In the following weeks and months, liquid will be added to the expander to stretch the skin enough to fit the desired implant size. Once the skin has stretched enough, surgery is performed to place a silicone or saline implant. In some instances, both steps may be performed at the same time. Permanent skin expanders serve as an effective breast implant as well. This eliminates a second surgery to place the implant. Your surgeon will decide if this is a viable treatment option for you.

Flap Reconstruction

Flap reconstruction involves taking tissue from one area of the body (the abdomen, buttock, or back), and relocating it to the chest. Blood vessels in the transplanted tissue are re-attached to new ones in the chest area. This new tissue will serve as the breast mound. In some instances, an implant may be placed as well. Due to the additional incisions, flap reconstruction surgery will result in more scarring, and require more healing time than straight forward implant reconstruction.

Sutures and Bandages

After the surgeon has created a symmetrical and natural-looking breast mound, the affected areas will be closed with sutures and bandaged. Your surgeon will provide post-operative instructions to ensure a speedy and complication-free recovery. For many patients, the full recovery period lasts about six weeks. During this time, strenuous activity should be avoided. Just as with surgery, breast reconstruction recovery is unique to each individual. It is important to discuss your specific recovery with your surgeon.

Many Patients Want to Know …

What are the risks associated with each procedure?

While breast reconstruction surgery is a highly successful procedure, both implant and flap reconstruction carry risks. These risks can include infection, scarring, or dissatisfaction with the result. Only your surgeon can speak to your specific risks. Learn more about general potential risks involves with reconstructive surgery.

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